Soul music from Evanswho has a lengthy career as a percussionist, singer and music producer. Co-founder and drummer for Soulive for fifteen years, the Evans trio play a 70’s flavored mix of soul and rock music.

Lindleytakes the folk approach to his music. Blues, country or otherwise, Lindley’s voice lends a texture that sounds like a cross between Bob Dylan and Jeff Tweedy. As a singer-guitarist Lindley can make a gentle acoustic song feel like a church hymn (see “King Me”) or a simple ballad like a traveling tune (“Tin Roof”).

Dixonstudied guitar at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. His music is a bluesy mix of reggae, ska and rock while Dixon’s singing is often a cool blend of soul and R&B (check out his smoky number “Trouble”).

Acoustic singer-songwriterand guitarist from the D.C. area who sings about life, love and loss with an affectionate, but pointed, vocal position. His honey-soaked vocals bear sadness and swagger, all mixed together within melody rich songs. For fans of James Taylor. Click here for directions.

As part of a two night stand at The Whiskey, The Mantraswill play a mix of jam band material that boasts a hefty amount of flavors that transcend the jam band label. In the vein of bands like Umphrey’s McGee, The Mantras mix up a variety of sounds, be they funky or Middle eastern.

Longfirst staked a claim at being an actress but when the glitter fell off that path she returned to Durham, N.C. and began writing songs and playing instruments. Mixing up pop-rock and alt-country, Long has made music that’s filled with gorgeous vocals and strong musicianship. Her first album was helmed by a Grammy winning producer and she and the band have a new EP out called “Geography.”

This Florida based bandis a curious and mercurial mix of Americana/Folk music with a low-key indie rock slant. With cool harmonies with a rustic slant, HGWT make up-tempo music with heart and a laid back, back porch feel.

Husky but gentle vocalistwho performs a mix of mid tempo Americana rockers and soulful, bittersweet ballads. A member of the local band A Few Good Liars, Shallow has a graceful voice with a lot of heart. He sings songs that can be tender and those that traffic in darkness. In all he does so with restraint, whether on country tinged acoustic ballads (the excellent “Amen”) or aching confession-drenched numbers.

This classically trained Haitian-American composer plays the violin and is known for mixing up classical music with Funk, Rock and Hip Hop. Garnering accolades from Esquire Magazine and appearing on American Idol, Roumain has performed with a wide range of performers and musician, from pop superstar Lady Ga Ga to the brilliant composer Philip Glass.

Husky but gentle vocalistwho performs a mix of mid tempo Americana rockers and soulful, bittersweet ballads. A member of the local band A Few Good Liars, Shallow has a graceful voice with a lot of heart. He sings songs that can be tender and those that traffic in darkness. In all he does so with restraint, whether on country tinged acoustic ballads (the excellent “Amen”) or aching confession-drenched numbers.

Ghost to Falcohas an interesting yet familiar sound. It’s a combustible mix of rough and tumble guitar and drums matched with a hoarse melodic singer in Eric Crespo. The group’s sound is gritty and eerie but unmistakably pretty. It’s low-key, rustic rock and roll sound is akin to Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, but far less tinny and English. GTF is ghostly bare bones rock music without all the bombast and posturing.

A former Navy Chief Petty Officer, Courtneyhas been playing locally for a while now, doubling up shows with the Beachbilly Brothers. Courtney sings a mix of country and acoustic sing-along songs, all done with a warm inviting voice.

Reggae and Rock showcase featuring Ballyhoo! From Baltimore, a band that’s no stranger to Wilmington, stopping through with bands like 33 West. The band mixes rock and Reggae with punk energy and makes music that’s party-minded and accessible. For fans of 311 and Sublime.

Jarvis plays a mix of Jazz piano and ambient music resulting in a beautiful and random performance that evolves with each night. Catch Jarvis weekly at The Calico Room. Watch Jarvis on Google+ on Monday nights at 9pm.

Jacksonville’s Black Hellatonesbelts out caustic, progressive rock that pops and stabs. The music is melodic and yet it stings due to it being laced with a powerful and soulful singer in Kelly Dickson who vocalizes like a temptress and much less like another run-of-the-mill rock singer. She wails and croons while the band – Kazz and Storm Castaneda explode around her.

About This Blog

The WAE: Wilmington-area Arts & Entertainment is dedicated to experiencing, discussing and promoting the arts in Southeastern N.C. From theater and all manner of music to visual art, dance, festivals and more, The WAE is populated by people who are immersed in local A&E. If it’s about A&E in Southeastern N.C., then we’re all about it.